Restoring Your Smile with Crowns & Bridges in Royal Oak, MI

A confident smile is an essential part of your overall appearance and well-being. However, missing or damaged teeth can make chewing, speaking, and feeling confident about your smile difficult. Fortunately, crowns & bridges in Royal Oak, MI, offer reliable and long-lasting solutions to restore your teeth's function and aesthetics. Whether you need to repair a single damaged tooth or replace multiple missing teeth, these restorative dental treatments can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us to learn more.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their strength, shape, and appearance. They are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Crowns are custom-made to match your teeth' natural color and shape, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile.

When Are Crowns Needed?

A dentist in Royal Oak, MI, may recommend a crown in the following situations:

• To protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold a cracked tooth together
• To restore a tooth that has been severely worn down or damaged
• To support and cover a tooth with a large filling when not much natural tooth remains
• To cover a dental implant or a root canal-treated tooth
• To enhance the appearance of a discolored or misshapen tooth

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing a small portion of its structure, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown. The permanent crown is custom-made in a dental lab and cemented into place during the second visit.

Understanding Dental Bridges

If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can be an excellent option for filling the gap. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth (abutments). Like crowns, bridges are custom-made to match the appearance of your natural teeth.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges available, including:

• Traditional Bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth supported by crowns on adjacent natural teeth.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available to support the bridge.
• Maryland Bridges: These use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth rather than crowns.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: These are anchored by dental implants instead of natural teeth, providing a more stable and long-term solution.

Benefits of Crowns & Bridges

Choosing crowns & bridges in Royal Oak, MI, comes with several benefits, including:

• Restoring Functionality: Crowns and bridges help improve chewing and speaking abilities, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and communicate clearly.
• Enhancing Aesthetics: These restorations are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring your smile's appearance.
• Preventing Teeth Shifting: When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth may shift into the space, leading to bite problems. A bridge prevents this from happening.
• Strengthening Teeth: A crown protects a weakened or damaged tooth, helping to extend its lifespan.
• Boosting Confidence: A complete and healthy smile can enhance your self-esteem and overall quality of life.

The Procedure for Getting Crowns & Bridges

Receiving crowns and bridges is typically completed in two or more visits. Here's what to expect:

Step 1: Consultation and Examination

A dentist will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and determine if a crown or bridge is the right solution for you. They will discuss additional procedures, such as root canals or extractions, before proceeding if necessary.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

For a crown or traditional bridge, the dentist will reshape the supporting teeth by removing a portion of the enamel to accommodate the restoration. Impressions of your teeth are then taken to create a custom-fit crown or bridge.

Step 3: Temporary Crown or Bridge Placement

While waiting for the permanent crown or bridge to be fabricated in the lab, a temporary restoration is placed to protect the prepared teeth.

Step 4: Permanent Placement

Once the custom-made crown or bridge is ready, it is carefully fitted and cemented into place. Your dentist will check the fit, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your bite is comfortable.

Caring for Your Crowns & Bridges

To extend the longevity of your crowns and bridges, follow these care tips:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the restoration.
• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Chewing on hard candies or sticky foods can damage your crowns or bridges.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine checkups with a dentist help ensure your restorations remain in good condition.
• Wear a Nightguard if Needed: A custom nightguard can protect your crowns and bridges from excessive wear if you grind your teeth at night.

How Long Do Crowns & Bridges Last?

With proper care, crowns and bridges can last 10 to 15 years or more. The lifespan depends on factors such as oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental checkups. Avoiding excessive force on your teeth and maintaining a healthy mouth will also contribute to their longevity.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you have damaged or missing teeth, crowns, and bridges can restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. Whether you need a single crown or a full bridge, an experienced dentist in Royal Oak, MI, can provide a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs. Contact a local dental professional today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!

To schedule an appointment with us at Royal Oak Dental, located at 715 North Main Street, Royal Oak, MI 48067, or for bookings and consultations, call (248) 398-1818. Please visit our official website today to learn more about our various services.